Barbecue bonanza keeps butchers busy with eased restrictions and summer sun

Butchers around the Lothians saw the masses descend upon them yesterday as the first easing of lockdown restrictions coincided with the beginning of one of the hottest weekends of the year.

With two households now permitted to meet outside only, many have been anticipating a weekend of grilling meat, catching-up and soaking-up heat.

Kevin Watt Butchers of Haddington said they were “extremely busy”, estimating a 400 per cent increase in sales, adding: “since the start of lockdown it seems to be a lot busier”.

George Bower said his shop in Stockbridge was “absolutely rammed”.

“We have been since the whole lockdown thing started but with lockdown easing it’s been busier than it has been at this time of the week.

“More people are coming in and buying more steaks, burgers, kebabs and anything they can chuck on the griddle,” he added.

Findlays of Portobello said it was “pandemonium” in the high street butchers, adding: “It’s a nice day so customers don’t mind standing outside at the moment, we’re still only letting three in at once.

“During the week we’ve been quiet, but most business is still deliveries at the moment.”

In Corstorphine, Brash Family Butchers said business has been steadily increasing.

“Since it was announced lockdown would relax it’s definitely been a lot busier in the shop. We’ve still got our social distancing measures in place to ensure it’s safe for customers to come and get their meat,” they said.

John Lawson Butchers in Broxburn also reported queues snaking out of the door, saying: “It’s been so busy with the lockdown easing.”

Warnings have been issued to those planning to barbecue, as rising temperatures create a “very high” risk of wildfires.